Recall of Sprouted Chia & Flax Seed Powders Sold in Georgia Over Public Health Risk from Salmonella

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black is alerting Georgians to the recall of certain chia and flax seed powder products distributed in Georgia due to potential health risk. Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) inspectors will be checking retail stores and warehouses to make sure the recalled products have been removed from sale. Here is the information via the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):

Health Matters America is recalling specific lots of Organic Traditions Sprouted Flax Seed Powder and Sprouted Chia & Flax Seed Powder because the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, the elderly, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea that is often bloody, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more severe illnesses.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

These products were distributed nationwide in flexible plastic bags. Here is the complete recall product information:

Random samples taken by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) from retail stores in Canada tested positive for Salmonella. CFIA then notified the supplier; Health Matters America had received the affected lots and has ceased packaging and distribution of the affected product. The FDA, CFIA and Health Matters America continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who purchased the affected products should return them to place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-888-343-3278, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by e-mail: orders@healthmattersamerica.com.

This is one of several recalls impacting Georgia this week. To view a comprehensive list or sign up for e-mail alerts, please visit www.agr.georgia.gov/recalls.aspx. If this recall expands or additional details become available, the website will provide the most up-to-date information. Also follow the GDA on Twitter @GDAFoodSafety for recall alerts and food safety tips.

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About the GDA The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) is the voice of the state’s agriculture community. The department's mission is to provide excellence in services and regulatory functions, to protect and promote agriculture and consumer interests, and to ensure an abundance of safe food and fiber for Georgia, America, and the world by using state-of-the-art technology and a professional workforce. For more information, visit www.agr.georgia.gov.